As government shutdown begins, Obama becomes explainer-in-chief

The president’s remarks to Department of Defense employees blame Congress for not only the current shutdown but also for summer furloughs.

By Matt WilsonOct. 1, 2013

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In the midst of all the blame, it seems to have fallen on the executive branch to explain the effects of the shutdown, which went into effect at midnight Tuesday.

Early Tuesday morning, President Obama released a video message directed at troops and Department of Defense employees explaining what exactly is going to happen while the shutdown continues, and also pointing a finger at the legislative branch.

“To all our DOD civilians, I know the days ahead could mean more uncertainty, including possible furloughs,” he says in the video. “And I know this comes on top of the furloughs that many of you already endured this summer. You and your families deserve better than the dysfunction we’re seeing in Congress.”

The president explains that people on active military duty will remain on normal duty status as a result of special legislation passed Monday night.